History, Art and Culture: July 2024 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

Puri Jagannath Temple's Ratna Bhandar

Why in News?

Recently, the Odisha government unlocked the revered Ratna Bhandar of the 12-century Jagannath temple in Puri after 46 years.

What is Jagannath Temple’s Ratna Bhandar?

About:

• The Ratna Bhandar is a valuable collection of treasures, located on the northern side of the Jagamohana (assembly hall of temple).
• It contains the priceless jewelry of the sibling deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra which have been offered by former kings over many centuries and by devotees from around the globe.
• The Records of Rights created in accordance with the Puri Sri Jagannath Temple Act, 1952, includes an inventory of the precious jewelry and assorted adornments belonging to Lord Jagannath.
• It contains two chambers namely the outer (Bahara Bhandar) and inner chamber (Bhitar Bhandar), which has remained closed for the past 46 years.
• As per the inventory last made in 1978, the Ratna Bhandar has a total 128.38 kg of gold and 221.53 kg of silver.
• Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is the custodian of the temple and had performed a structural inspection of the Ratna Bhandar in 2008 but could not enter the inner chamber.

What are the Key Facts About Jagannath Temple?

Puri’s Jagannath temple is among the most revered Hindu shrines in the state (and India), dedicated to the worship of Lord Jagannath, believed to be an incarnation of Vishnu, along with his older brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra.

• It is known as the “White Pagoda” and is one of the chardhams, four of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
• It is part of the Golden Triangle of Odisha which includes three major tourist destinations in the state that form a triangle and are well-connected.
• The temple was constructed by a famous king of Ganga Dynasty Ananta Varman Chodaganga Deva dating back to the 12th century.
• It is an outstanding example of Kalinga architecture, featuring distinctive curvilinear towers, intricate carvings, and ornate sculptures.

Gates of Jagannath Temple

It is also called as ‘Yamanika Tirtha’ where, according to the Hindu beliefs, the power of ‘Yama’, the god of death, has been nullified in Puri due to the presence of Lord Jagannath.

Associated Major Festivals

• Snana Yatra
• Netrotsava
• Rath Yatra
• Sayan Ekadasi

51,200 Year Old Cave Painting Discovered

Why in News?

Recent research has unveiled the discovery of the world's oldest known figurative cave painting, estimated to be around 51,200 years old. This astonishing finding was made possible through the application of a new dating technique.

Key Observations about the Painting

Artistic Representation:

• pig standing still with its mouth partly open.
• Three human-like figures surrounding the pig:
• The largest figure with outstretched arms gripping a rod.
• Second figure in front of the pig, holding a stick.
• Third figure upside-down, with legs pointing upwards and one hand reaching toward the pig's head.

Technique Used in Dating:

• Researchers employed uranium series (U-series) analysis on calcite deposits in limestone caves to determine the age of the paintings.
• They utilized laser beams to compare the ratio of specific isotopes of uranium and thorium, a method that provided insights into the age of the artwork.
• The dating method revealed that the painting is at least 4,000 years older than initially estimated.
• This dating technique is a significant advancement in the field of archaeology, offering a new approach to understanding ancient artworks.

Significance:

• Researchers discovered that the history of figurative art, depicting humans and animals in scenes, has deeper roots than previously believed.
• Unlike Neanderthals, early humans engaged in elaborate visual arts to represent relationships between humans and animals, showcasing a sophisticated narrative tradition.
• This finding not only sheds light on the cultural practices of early humans but also hints at the emergence of a rich artistic heritage.

Abhay Mudra in Buddhism

Why in news?

Abhaya Mudra is a gesture symbolizing reassurance and freedom from fear, commonly depicted in various religious traditions.

What's in today's article?

Mudras in Buddhism

• Non-verbal mode of communication and self-expression
• Consist of hand gestures and finger postures
• Symbolic sign-based finger patterns conveying divine powers or deities

Abhaya Mudra in Hindu Religion

• Gesture with a raised open palm symbolizing peace and friendship
• Associated with the fifth Dhyani-Buddha, Amoghasiddhi
• Denotes acts of pacification, reassurance, or protection

About Mudras

• Hand gestures and finger movements used for communication
• Highly stylized form of gestureal communication
• Represent dominant themes in Buddha's life

Five Primary Mudras

• Abhaya Mudra: Symbolizes peace and friendship, associated with the fifth Dhyani-Buddha, Amoghasiddhi
• Dharmachakra Mudra: Associated with the first Dhyani-Buddha, Vairochana, symbolizing the 'Wheel of Dharma'
• Bhumisparsha Mudra: Symbolizes the moment of Buddha's enlightenment under the pipal tree
• Varada Mudra: Associated with the third Dhyani-Buddha Ratnasambhava, known as the 'boon-granting' mudra
• Dhyana Mudra: Associated with the fourth Dhyani-Buddha Amitabha, denotes a state of concentration and meditation

Significance of Mudras

• Mudras hold deep symbolic meanings in Buddhist art
• Each transcendental Buddha is associated with a specific mudra
• Used as narrative and pedagogical devices in art

Integration of Mudras in Different Traditions

• Over time, mudras were seen in depictions of various deities
• Commonly seen in representations of Buddha, Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesh

Santhal Hul of 1855

Why in News?

Recently, the 169th anniversary of the was commemorated on 30 June 2024, marking a pivotal peasant revolt against British colonial oppression. This uprising led to the enactment of the Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act of 1876 and the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act of 1908, crucial in preserving tribal land rights and cultural autonomy in India.

What is the Santhal Hul of 1855?

Historical Background:

• The Santhal Hul of 1855 was one of the earliest peasant uprisings against British colonial rule in India.
• Led by four brothers - Sidho, Kanho, Chand, and Bhairav Murmu - along with sisters Phulo and Jhano, the revolt began on 30 June 1855.
• The revolt targeted not only the British but also upper castes, zamindars, darogas, and moneylenders, collectively termed 'diku'.
• It aimed to protect the economic, cultural, and religious rights of the Santhal community.

Genesis of the Uprising:

• In 1832, certain areas were designated as 'Santhal Pargana' or 'Damin-i-Koh', which includes present-day Sahibganj, Godda, Dumka, Deoghar, Pakur, and parts of Jamtara, in present-day Jharkhand.
• The area was given to the Santhals who were displaced from various regions under the Bengal Presidency.
• The Santhals were promised settlement and agriculture in Damin-i-Koh, but instead they faced repressive land-grabbing and begari (bonded labour).

Guerrilla Warfare and Suppression:

• The Murmu brothers led around 60,000 Santhals in guerrilla warfare against the East India Company.
• Despite fierce resistance lasting six months, the revolt was crushed in January 1856 with severe casualties and devastation.
• More than 15,000 Santhals lost their lives, and over 10,000 villages were destroyed.

Impact:

• The uprising led to the enactment of the Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act of 1876 (SPT Act) prohibits transfer of Adivasi lands to non-Adivasis, allows land inheritance only within the community and preserves Santhals' right to self-govern their land.

What are the Other Tribal Revolts in Chota Nagpur Region?

• Munda Rebellion:
  • Munda Ulgulan (rebellion was a significant tribal revolt during Indian Independence, highlighting the tribal people's ability to raise their voice against exploitation.
  • The Munda tribe in Chota Nagpur, Jharkhand, primarily engaged in agriculture, faced oppression from British colonists, zamindars, and missionaries.
  • Birsa Munda spearheaded the movement striving to reclaim the tribe's lost land and rights.
• Chotanagpur Tenancy Act (CNT Act):
  • Enacted by the British in 1908 as a result of the Birsa Movement, it allows land transfers within the same caste and certain geographical areas with the approval of the District Collector.
  • This Act also restricts the sale of Adivasi and Dalit land, while allowing land transfers between Adivasi individuals from the same police station and Dalits in the same district.
• Tana Bhagat Movement:
  • Started in April 1914 under the leadership of Jatra Bhagat, aiming to stop the evil practices in the Oraon community of Chotanagpur and oppose the exploitation by Zamindars.
  • The movement promoted non-violence, influenced by Mahatma Gandhi.
• Chuar Uprising:
  • Chuar Uprising took place in the region between Chota Nagpur and the plains of Bengal from 1767 to 1802, led by Durjan Singh. The tribes rebelled and used guerrilla tactics in response to the British taking away their land.
• Tamar Revolt:
  • It was an uprising by the Oraon tribes of Tamar in the Chotanagpur region between 1789 and 1832, led by Bhola Nath Sahay.
  • The tribes revolted against the faulty alignment system implemented by the British government, which had failed to secure the land rights of the tenants, causing unrest among the Tamar tribes in 1789.

Mains Question

Tribal revolts in colonial India reflected deep-seated grievances against British colonial policies. Discuss this statement with reference to examples from mainland and frontier regions.

Foundation Day of Puducherry

Why in News?

Every year, the 1st July is marked as the foundation day of Puducherry as on this day Government of Union Territories Act 1963 providing with Legislative Assemblies and Council of Ministers came into force.

What are Key Facts about Puducherry?

• About: The present UT of Puducherry was formed in 1962 out of the four former colonies of French (Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam).
• Geographical Surroundings: Puducherry regions are surrounded by the state of Tamilnadu while Yanam is surrounded by the state of Andhra Pradesh and Kerala.
• Cultural Significance: Puducherry has been recognized as a Union Territory due to its multi-state location accommodating diverse cultures.

History of Pondicherry:

• Ancient History: Puducherry has a rich maritime history dating back to Roman trade activities in the 1st Century AD.
• Colonial History: Modern Puducherry was established in 1673 by the French East India Company, with significant developments under Governor Francois Martin and Joseph Francis Dupleix.
• Post-Independence: Puducherry formally became a part of India in 1963, marking the end of 280 years of French rule.

Political Status of Pondicherry:

• Constitutional Framework: Governed by the Government of Union Territories Act 1963, Puducherry operates with elected legislatures and a Lieutenant Governor.
• Legislative Powers: The Puducherry Assembly can legislate on issues falling under the Concurrent and State Lists.
• Statehood Demand: Puducherry has long sought statehood for increased autonomy in governance and development.

Culture:

• Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Auroville, a planned township reflecting Franco-Tamil architecture, embodies Sri Aurobindo's vision of a harmonious future.
• Cultural Fusion: Puducherry offers a blend of French and Indian cultures, enriching its unique identity.
• Statehood Demand by Puducherry
• Bills for Women's Quota in J&K and Puducherry

Mains Question:

The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories has been a continuous ongoing process. Discuss this in the context of the statehood demand of Puducherry.

Renaming of Joshimath and Kosiyakutoli

Why in news?

The Uttarakhand government's proposal to rename Joshimath tehsil to Jyotirmath and Kosiyakutoli tehsil to Pargana Shri Kainchi Dham tehsil has been approved by the Centre.

Rationale behind Renaming: 

• Religious Tourism: The renaming aims to enhance the religious and cultural significance of these areas, boosting Uttarakhand's appeal as a religious tourism destination.

Historical Context: 

• Josimath and Kosiyakutoli: These places have historical and spiritual importance, attracting pilgrims and devotees from various regions.

Significance of Jyotirmath: 

• Adi Shankaracharya's Legacy: Jyotirmath is one of the four cardinal mathas founded by Adi Shankaracharya, symbolizing the spread of spiritual knowledge and the Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
• Divine Connection: The name "Jyotirmath" signifies the divine enlightenment attained by Adi Shankaracharya under the Amar Kalpavriksha, representing deep spiritual awakening.

Transition from Jyotirmath to Joshimath: 

• Linguistic Evolution: The shift from "Jyotirmath" to "Joshimath" over time reflects linguistic and cultural changes rather than a specific historical event.
• Recent Demands for Change: Residents' requests to revert to the original name led to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announcing the change.

Kosiyakutoli's Transformation: 

• Name Change Rationale: Renaming Kosiyakutoli to Pargana Shri Kainchi Dham tehsil aligns its identity with Neem Karoli Baba's Kainchi Dham Ashram, enhancing recognition and reverence.
• Geographical Significance: The name "Kosiyakutoli" is derived from the Kosi river, highlighting the region's ecological and economic importance.

Neem Karoli Baba's Legacy: 

• Spiritual Icon: Neem Karoli Baba's association with Kainchi Dham Ashram and his teachings on bhakti yoga continue to inspire followers globally.
• Global Influence: Prominent Western disciples like Steve Jobs and Ram Dass played a role in spreading Neem Karoli Baba's teachings worldwide, amplifying his spiritual legacy.
• The renaming of Joshimath and Kosiyakutoli tehsils: Underscores efforts to honor and preserve Uttarakhand's rich religious and cultural heritage.
• By recognizing and highlighting the spiritual significance of these regions: The state aims to promote respect, tourism, economic growth, and sustainable development alongside environmental conservation.

UNESCO Recognition for Kozhikode

Why in news?

Recently recognized as the 'City of Literature' under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).

What is the UNESCO Creative Cities Network?

• Established in 2004
• Encompasses seven creative fields: Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music
• An annual conference that fosters collaboration among cities worldwide
• The 2024 conference will be held in July in Braga, Portugal

Objective of the Network

• 350 cities are part of this network
• Focuses on integrating creativity and cultural industries into local development plans
• Aims to contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 11 through innovative initiatives
• Encourages sharing of best practices and partnerships involving public, private sectors, and civil society

Significance

• Emphasizes the importance of cultural activities in community development
• Works towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals

Indian Cities in UCCN

• Kozhikode: Recognized for its literary and cultural contributions
• Jaipur: Designated as a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Arts in 2015
• Varanasi: Acknowledged as a Creative City of Music in 2015
• Chennai: Designated as a Creative City of Music in 2017
• Mumbai: Recognized for its contribution to Film in 2019
• Hyderabad: Known for Gastronomy since 2019
• Srinagar: Acknowledged for Crafts and Folk Art in 2021

Srinagar gets tag of ‘World Craft City'

Why in news?

Recently, Srinagar has become the fourth Indian city to be recognised as a ‘World Crafts City’ by the World Craft Council (WCC). Jaipur, Malappuram, and Mysore are the other three Indian cities that have earlier been recognised as World Craft Cities. In 2021, Srinagar city was designated a creative city as part of the UNESCO Creative City Network (UCCN) for crafts and folk arts. Papier-mâché, walnut wood carving, carpets, Sozni embroidery, and Pashmina and Kani shawls are some of the crafts from Srinagar.

WCC-World Craft City Programme

• Launched in 2014 by the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International) to recognize the pivotal role local authorities, craftspeople, and communities play in crafts development across the world.

WCC-International

• Founded in 1964
• Smt Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, being one of the founding members, attended the 1st WCC General Assembly.

Craft Council of India

• Founded in 1964 by Smt Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay to protect and enhance India’s craft heritage.

Birth Anniversary of Sant Kabir Das

Why in news?

On 22nd June 2024, the Prime Minister commemorated the birth anniversary Sant Kabir Das.

• Sant Kabir Das, a 15th-century Indian mystic poet and saint, was born in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh to a Hindu family but was raised by a Muslim weaver couple.
• He was a notable figure in the Bhakti movement, which emphasized devotion and love for the divine.
• The Bhakti movement started in the century in South India and spread to North India during the 14 and 15 centuries.
• Popular poet-saints of the Bhakti movement, like Ramananda, sang devotional songs in vernacular languages.
• Kabir sought spiritual guidance from teachers such as Sheikh Taqi, shaping his unique philosophy.
• Kabir is revered by both Hindus and Muslims, and his followers are known as "Kabir Panthis".
• His popular literary works include Kabir Bijak (poems and verses), Kabir Parachai, Sakhi Granth, Adi Granth (Sikh), Kabir Granthawali (Rajasthan).
• His works, written in the Brajbhasha Awadhi dialects, significantly influenced Indian literature and the development of the Hindi language.

Birth Anniversary Commemoration

• The celebration of Sant Kabir Das's 647th birth anniversary was observed by the Prime Minister on June 22, 2024.

Background of Sant Kabir Das

• Sant Kabir Das, a revered figure in Indian history, was born in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Despite being born into a Hindu family, he was raised by a Muslim weaver couple, reflecting the harmonious coexistence of different faiths.

Significance of Bhakti Movement

• Kabir Das played a significant role in the Bhakti movement, which highlighted the importance of devotion and love for the divine. This movement, which originated in South India, gained popularity in North India during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Philosophical Influences

• Kabir sought spiritual guidance from various teachers, including Sheikh Taqi, which shaped his unique philosophical outlook. His teachings resonate with both Hindus and Muslims, symbolizing unity and spiritual enlightenment.

Literary Contributions

• Kabir's literary works, such as Kabir Bijak, Kabir Parachai, and others, written in languages like Brajbhasha and Awadhi, have left a lasting impact on Indian literature and language development.

Keshava Temple at Somanathapura

Why in News?

Karnataka’s Tourism Department plans to highlight Somanathapura Temple, part of the Hoysala temples, in the Mysuru tourism circuit ahead of Dasara, leveraging its UNESCO World Heritage status.

• The Somanathapura Temple, along with other Hoysala temples such as the Chennakeshava Temple at Belur and the Hoysaleshwara Temple at Halebid, (called ‘Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala’) was granted UNESCO WHS in September 2023.

About Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

• The Keshava Temple is considered one of the last grand structures built by the Hoysala dynasty.
• This Trikuta (three-shrined) temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is represented in three forms: Janardhana, Keshava, and Venugopala. 
• The main Keshava idol is missing, and the Janardhana and Venugopala idols are damaged.

Historical Background:

• The Keshava Temple was constructed by Somanatha, a commander of the Hoysala Army, during the reign of Hoysala King Narasimha III.
• Somanatha, who had established a town named Somanathapura after himself, sought the king’s permission and resources to build this grand temple.
• With the king’s blessing, construction commenced and was completed in 1268 AD.
• An inscription in old Kannada on a stone slab in the temple provides details of its construction and consecration.
• After demolitions by invaders, it no longer serves as a place of worship.

Architecture:

• The temple is constructed from soapstone, which allows for the fine detailing seen in the carvings.
• It is built on a raised platform with an outer Pradakshina pathway, allowing devotees to circum-ambulate the sanctum.
• The temple features a stellar (star-shaped) plan, which creates multiple corners and niches, providing numerous canvases for the sculptors to showcase their intricate work.
• The temple has three shrines, each crowned with a Vimana (tower).
• The Hoysala emblem, depicting a warrior fighting a lion, is prominently displayed.
• The walls of the temple are adorned with beautiful friezes depicting scenes from Hindu epics, figures of elephants, and battle scenes with cavalry.

Nalanda University

Why in news?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the new Nalanda University campus near Rajgir's ancient university ruins.

• Nalanda stands out as the most ancient university on the Indian Subcontinent.
• Founded by Kumar Gupta of the Gupta dynasty in Bihar in the early 5th century, Nalanda flourished for 600 years until the 12th century.
• During the era of Harshavardhan and the Pala monarchs, Nalanda rose to popularity.
• It was a center of learning, culture, and intellectual exchange with a profound impact on Indian civilization and beyond.
• Nalanda was a monastic establishment primarily for monks and nuns, teaching major philosophies of Buddhism.
• Students came from regions like China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
• Students at Nalanda followed a strict code of conduct and engaged in daily meditation and study sessions.
• Subjects taught included medicine, Ayurveda, religion, Buddhism, mathematics, grammar, astronomy, and Indian philosophy.
• Destroyed in the 12th century AD by Turkish ruler Qutbuddin Aibak's general Bakhtiyar Khilji, Nalanda was rediscovered in 1812.
• Chinese monk Xuan Zang provided valuable insights into the academic and architectural grandeur of ancient Nalanda.